Speaking to the United Nations General Assembly, Malala Yousafzai described her experience at the hands of the Taliban, in Swat Valley. She and her some of her school friends were targeted and shot by terrorists. Malala was shot in the head. Malala was targeted because she spoke out for education, in particular for the education of girls.

“They thought the bullet would silence us. But they failed. Out of that silence came thousands of voices. Terrorists thought they could change our aims and our ambitions. Nothing changed, but this: weakness, fear and hopelessness died. Strength, courage and fervour was born.”

She went on to speak about her feelings and how she was not seeking revenge,

“They are afraid of women. The power of the voice of women frightens them.”

“Education is the only solution.”

“One child, one teacher, one book and one pen can change the world.”

What she says is so true and so important, that I felt moved to forward her message.

As we stand on the eve of the announcement of this year’s Nobel Peace Prize winners, I wanted to reflect on Malala’s words. She is a young girl, yet she is a leader and inspiration to us all. She demonstrates her courage and conviction for all to see.

Her weapon is the pen, and it is truly mightier than the sword.